Optimisation of a novel Horizontal Flow Biofilm Reactor (HFBR) for the removal of nuisance gases

In this research 9 pilot scale Horizontal Flow Biofilm Reactors (HFBR) were used to treat nuisance gases common in wastewater treatment, namely methane (CH4), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and ammonia (NH3). Excellent results were achieved in each case. Successful liquid phase optimisation of the CH4 reactors led to removal rates of up to 10 g CH4 m3. hr. Full removal of H2S and NH3 was also achieved at loading rates of up to 11.6 g H2S m3. hr and 4.9 g NH3 m3. hr respectively.